Digestoa
Additive · Modified starch

Hydroxypropyl distarch phosphate (E1442)

Hydroxypropyl distarch phosphate (E1442) is a modified starch that Digestoa rates as low concern — it's considered safe at the levels used in food.

Digestoa riskLow risk
TypeModified starch
Found insauces, soups, ready meals, desserts and many processed foods
ConcernsUltra-processing marker

What is Hydroxypropyl distarch phosphate?

Hydroxypropyl distarch phosphate (E1442) is a modified starch — used to thicken and stabilise processed foods.

Is Hydroxypropyl distarch phosphate bad for you?

Hydroxypropyl distarch phosphate is permitted in food and Digestoa rates it as low concern. There's no strong evidence it causes harm at the levels typically used in food.

What foods contain Hydroxypropyl distarch phosphate?

Sauces, soups, ready meals, desserts and many processed foods.

Digestoa's take

You don't need to avoid Hydroxypropyl distarch phosphate. It's one of the more benign things on an ingredients list — worth knowing, not worth worrying about.

Safer swaps

Choose less-processed products with short, recognisable ingredient lists.

Frequently asked questions

Is E1442 the same as Hydroxypropyl distarch phosphate?
Yes — E1442 is the international additive (E-number) code for Hydroxypropyl distarch phosphate.
Is Hydroxypropyl distarch phosphate bad for you?
Digestoa rates Hydroxypropyl distarch phosphate (E1442) as low concern. It's permitted in food and considered safe at normal dietary levels.
What are the side effects of Hydroxypropyl distarch phosphate?
Reported concerns include: Ultra-processing marker.
What foods contain Hydroxypropyl distarch phosphate?
Sauces, soups, ready meals, desserts and many processed foods.
How can I avoid Hydroxypropyl distarch phosphate?
Check the ingredients list for "Hydroxypropyl distarch phosphate" or "E1442", or scan the product with Digestoa to see if it's present before you buy.

Related modified starch additives

Dextrin (E1400)Oxidised starch (E1404)Distarch phosphate (E1412)Acetylated distarch phosphate (E1414)Starch sodium octenyl succinate (E1450)

Risk ratings reflect Digestoa's editorial assessment synthesising EFSA/IARC opinions and peer-reviewed research. Informational only — not medical advice.